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James Crawley writes

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WellRed meets: Niclas Eliasson

Swedish winger Niclas Eliasson discusses his favourite City moments and his World Cup thoughts as he reflects on his first season in BS3.

How are you finding life in Bristol and at the football club?

"I’m really enjoying it. There have been lots of new things to experience compared to where I am from in Sweden, so there have been a lot of things to learn and to get used to; not just on but off the pitch as well!

"I moved here on my own and I had to get better at the language too. I feel I am getting more used to it every day, the lifestyle too and I am hoping to express myself more as well."

As a young man, how hard was it to leave your family behind?

"Although my family are all back in Sweden, I had moved around without them before, so I am used to it. The team and the club here are full of great people so that has been nice for me. I felt welcomed from my very first day so it’s been good."

What’s been a standout moment from your City career so far?

"It has to be being a part of the Manchester United game in the Carabao Cup quarter-final. Also, scoring my first goal away to Watford in the second round was a good moment. It ensured we would win the game but I hope there are more great moments to come too."

What do you think of Sweden’s World Cup hopes?

"I think they can do well. Of course they have a tough group, they are playing Germany for one! All teams at the World Cup will make each game difficult but I hope they can do a good job."

You also have Brazilian roots?

"Yes because my mum is from there, whereas my dad is Swedish. There’s some tough competition to get into the Brazil national team at the moment! I always opted to play my youth international football with Sweden."

This is a preview from inside Saturday's WellRed programme (v Ipswich Town) available to buy at Ashton Gate for £3.